Fun at the KRA Luncheon

The KRA decorated each table according to the author's books
and subject. What a cute idea! 

A few months back, I was invited to attend the Kentucky Reading Association's Author Luncheon. For my friends that aren't privileged to live in this great state, KRA's mission is to "... be a voice for literacy throughout the Commonwealth."

 As a teacher, I so admire the work of this association. Kentucky is a diverse state to say the least. Our farm communities struggle to educate many of our second language learners, the mountainous regions struggle with generational poverty, and the larger cities bring their own urban set of challenges. And so, it's exciting to have a conference where teachers come from every corner of the state to talk about the advances in literacy education.

 As a writer, I always look forward to meeting fellow authors and readers. What made this event great was the fact that the teachers attending the luncheon had a real passion for being in the classroom. What a wonderful opportunity to talk about my two favorite subjects: writing and education.

I'd like to thank Angie Madden, Kentucky Reading Association Author/Illustrator Luncheon Co-Chair, for all her hard work. I've rarely seen an event run with such precision and professionalism. Also, a special thank you to Joseph Beth Booksellers for bringing books to the event. I love Joseph-Beth's unwavering loyalty to the community. It's one of the many reasons I'll go twenty minutes out of my way to buy a book from them instead of going to a major chain just across the street.

One of the teachers at my table asked if I would like to quit teaching and write full-time. I explained that, while I would love to have more time to write, I'll never stop teaching. Writing is my passion, but teaching is my calling.

Today I was reminded I'm blessed to have both.

Meeting Kelly Creagh

My friend, Hope Collier, (AKA Izzie) and I try to attend every author event we can. We love meeting authors, listening to them read from their work, and then getting a signed copy of their books.

Writers are a genuine bunch. I think it's because writing it so personal. Stories are a part of us, and once someone has read your work, they've experienced your creativity, your mind. Honestly, there is such a kinship between reader and author that most book signings I've been to feel more like a family reunion instead of a bunch of strangers in a room. 

One of Izzie's favorite books is Nevermore, by Kelly Creagh. When we heard Kelly was going to be at Carmichael's, a wonderful little Indie bookstore in Louisville, we knew we had to go.

In complete nerd fashion, we showed up few hours early and found an overpriced restaurant. Meeting another author should be celebrated, after all. :-) After spending way too much money on a few appetizers and Long Island teas, we finally made our way to the corner store.

Kelly read a few excerpts, one from Nevermore and one from the sequel Enshadowed. She told of her adventures exploring the strange world of Poe, and had some pictures scrolling on her laptop. I loved her stories of the Poe toaster and that she actually spent the night in front of a cemetery trying to get a picture of him leaving roses on Poe's grave.

While the others lined up to get their books signed, Izzie and I sat and talked with Kelly's mom. I now know where Kelly gets her likability. The three of us laughed and shared stories like we were old friends. Pretty soon the line dwindled, only a few people remained, the chairs were being folded and put away, and yet we kept talking. I found myself wanting to invite her out for a bite of pie, but we still had to drive home. That, and I didn't want her to think I'm a stalker. :-)

If Kelly is ever in your neck of the woods, I'd definitely stop by and say hi. And who knows, if you're lucky you may meet her mom too.